Is it ok to eat raw bison?
Quick Answer
No
Eating raw bison is not recommended due to the risk of foodborne illnesses. Cooking bison to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is advised to kill harmful bacteria.
What Is It?
Bison is a type of meat that comes from the American Bison, a species native to North America. Raw bison refers to the meat that has not been cooked or processed in any way.
Historical Context
Bison has been a staple in the diet of Native Americans for centuries. However, it was traditionally cooked or smoked, not consumed raw.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating raw or undercooked bison can pose several health risks:
- Risk of foodborne illnesses like E.coli or Salmonella.
- Potential exposure to parasites that can cause diseases.
- Risk of bacterial infections due to improper handling or storage of raw meat.
Safe Method?
The safe method to consume bison is to cook it to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This ensures any harmful bacteria or parasites are killed.
Safe Alternatives
If you enjoy the taste of raw meat, consider dishes like steak tartare or carpaccio, which use high-quality beef that’s been frozen to kill parasites. Always ensure these dishes are prepared hygienically.
Storage Tips
Store raw bison in the refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F (4°C).’, ‘Use or freeze raw bison within 2 days of purchase.’, ‘Thaw frozen bison in the refrigerator, not on the counter.
Preparation Tips
Always wash your hands and clean kitchen surfaces before and after handling raw bison. Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for raw meat and other foods.